MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop A - 504 SE Blue Parkway - Lee' Summit, MO 64063


NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Sgt. Bill Lowe
(816) 622-0800
A2016-2
February 24, 2016

EMPHASIS: Missouri State Highway Patrol Investigates Officer-Involved Shooting


The Blue Springs Police Department requested the assistance of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control following a shooting involving two of the department’s officers. Shortly before 5 a.m., a 911 call was received by the Blue Springs Police Department concerning a possible burglary in progress at a residence within city limits. The suspect was described as a white male with long hair, wearing a black hoodie. Upon their arrival, the officers report observing an individual matching the suspect description holding a knife. The officers report giving verbal commands to the suspect, which were ignored, and that he subsequently charged the officers with the knife. The officers say they feared for their safety and fired their service weapons at the suspect, striking him. The officers report immediately attempting to render first aid and requesting emergency medical services. Despite their efforts, the suspect died at the scene. During the course of the investigation, a suicide note was found inside the house, which indicated the man had planned to create a confrontation with law enforcement. The investigation also revealed he had made the initial 911 call for law enforcement assistance and remained on the line with the communication center throughout the incident.

Pursuant to Missouri law, and at the request of the family, the name of the decedent is not being released at this time. This investigation is ongoing by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. Upon completion, the report will be sent the Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.


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